Biomimetic Nanotechnology Copying Nature On A Molecular Level

Topics Covered

Background

Biomimetic Nanotechnology

Implants

Biometics and Nanomachines

Background

Biomimetics is a well explored area of materials science that deals with the science of copying or improving upon that which is found in nature. We commonly produce bulk synthetic materials with properties that improved from what occurs naturally. An example of this is synthetic versus natural rubber. An example of biomimetics that copies a naturally occurring thing are the hooks in Velcro, something that copies the hooks in burrs and some wildflower seeds.

More advanced is the development of materials that can be readily used within the human body. These materials are largely designed to be inert and can be incorporated with natural tissues without causing any adverse reactions such as rejection or infection.

Biomimetic Nanotechnology

The above examples largely rely upon the macro level manipulation of materials and structures. Recent developments are using nanotechnology to produce molecular level changes to materials in order to mimic natural found materials.

Implants

Biomimetic synthetics are being used to encourage bone regeneration and interacction with human implants and orthopaedic implants. The smaller the particle size of the material used, the better the result as far as tissue growth and regeneration.

Biometics and Nanomachines

Researchers have already been able to mimic molecular transport systems within the body to build nanosized machines capable of moving particles. The molecular motors are made from ‘parts’ that are found within cells and therefore aren’t attacked by the defence mechanisms of the body.

Source: AZoNano

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